An enormous avalanche fell upon a luxury mountain hotel in central Italy after a series of strong earthquakes occurred in the area.
Locals claim that up to 30 people are buried under tonnes of snow and debris but that some have possibly survived due to an enclave at the rear of the hotel.
Italian media said three bodies had been retrieved from the site so far.
Rescue workers have finally made their way to the devastating scene and are working their way through debris to find any sign of survivors.
The four-storey Hotel Rigopiano is still visible after the wall of snow smashed into the four-star spa resort early yesterday evening leaving one side of the hotel completely flattened.
It is believed some of those inside were children under the age of 12.